June 29, 2009

2 Samuel 7-9

Chapter 7 deals with the issue of building a temple for God. David expressed to the prophet Nathan his interest in building a temple but God came to Nathan in a dream in which God had a word for David concerning his dynasty. This is a very interesting response. David intended to build God a temple (house) and in response God assured him that his dynasty (house) would endure forever. David’s prayer in response exalts God and is thankful for this honour and promises to be worthy of it. Chapter 8 records David’s victory in external affairs and recounts how he defeated the Philistines, Moabites, and others. Chapter 9 records his victory in internal affairs and recounts how he cared for Saul’s remaining descendant, Jonathan’s crippled son Mephibosheth. It is recorded that David did this out of honour for Saul rather than love of his good friend Jonathan.